A rather big story is quietly developing in Anaheim, where rookie Frederik Andersen has emerged as the favorite to start in goal for the Ducks when they kick off their first-round series Wednesday versus Dallas.

Andersen is 20-5-0 with a .923 save percentage, excellent numbers to be sure. But if Bruce Boudreau does decide to give the 24-year-old Dane the nod, the decision will be more about veteran Jonas Hiller‘s late-season struggles.

If I were Boudreau, I would start Hiller for Game 1 and see how he performs, while also preaching a defense-first approach from the team. If he does well, keep him in given his postseason experience (and how well he did at the Olympics this year). If not, give it to Andersen who does look beyond his years. It would be cool to see Gibson come in, and I think he could handle the pressure and has done very well, but I just don’t see them starting him over Andersen or Hiller when he only has 3 games of NHL experience. Bets on Hiller for game 1.

Good idea. But I don’t like preaching a “defense-first” approach. That is not BB’s style and the Ducks need to come out gunning on offense. Just because our goalie has not been playing well, does not mean we change our whole approach.

With that said, I am down with either goalie starting, wouldn’t mind seeing Gibson in there to start. Either way, the first goalie in will be on a very short leash.

areaman714 - Apr 15, 2014 at 6:19 PM

Yeah. I say Hiller as well. Andersen didn’t light the world on fire against the Kings a couple days ago . . . he played fine, but wasn’t close to spectacular. I am of the school of thought that experience is the deciding factor in playoff success. Andersen’s 28-odd NHL games might not be enough . . .

Since this “Gabby” charachter was in DC I have always felt he is no playoff coach, get what I mean? Washington never made it far, and Anaheim got upset last year by the Red Wings.
My money is on the Stars.

Gabby doesn’t start hiller in goal for game one? Sorry ducks but if you look at his history in Washington….this is what got him fired there…..best record in the east, best players in the league, screws with the goalies, bad playoff coach. And I like the guy! I wished the flyers would have picked him up. I never thought he’d start this goalie carousel in Anaheim. I hope I’m wrong cause I’d really like to see him go to the finals…..good luck ducks fans!